Backpacking
briankirby

Backpacking

November 2025

Expert
winner

I love the fabric flowing freely in the wind. There is something quietly metaphorical about them; perhaps they relate to the freedom of the open road that is so often part of the backpacking experience. The composition is strong, and the black and white tones are handled with skill. Kudos!

Excellent use of reflections to create a compelling and dynamic travel shot. The shallow depth of field, confident composition and artful monochrome conversion have all been skilfully realised. Strong work with a clear sense of intent and visual awareness. Kudos!

1,186 Images entered

The textures, layers and lovely use of light in this scene bring back memories of bus shelters, train stations and all the less glamorous corners of backpacking life. The monochrome treatment works a treat and feels perfectly matched to the subject.

471 Photographers

Clever and creative use of water and reflections to build a compelling, imaginative image. The brownish hues in the monochrome treatment work well and help evoke a quiet, timeless atmosphere that suits the subject perfectly. Good work, keep it up.

This cracking image is all about the decisive moment, which has been skilfully seen, anticipated and captured. The strong, dynamic shapes are reinforced by the thoughtful handling of the black and white tones, giving the whole frame real energy and intent.

The two sets of hikers help build depth while subtle leading lines draw the eye into the landscape. The muted colour palette and delicate tonal range add quiet mystery, hinting at a narrative that holds the viewer’s attention. Good work.

Wow, what an impressive vista. This would not look out of place in a high-end travel magazine. The sweeping landscape is beautifully complemented by the lone backpacker, positioned perfectly to give the viewer a strong sense of being there in the moment.

It is a classic approach, but it works a treat. The leading and converging lines of the road pull the viewer into the scene and create a strong sense of journey. The backpacker in the middle of the road gives the perfect focal point, although I would not recommend standing there on a misty day like this. The distant fog adds atmosphere and a feeling of venturing into the unknown.

I love the juxtaposition and the quiet dialogue between the two characters in this frame. It shows a sharp sense of seeing from the photographer. The composition and handling of the monochrome tonality feel carefully considered and well realised. Kudos.

This image takes me straight back to my backpacking days. I feel like I can sense the whole experience from this one photograph. Love the handling of the tones, the tricky light and the bold, confident and engaging composition. Kudos.

Another wonderful vista with perfectly placed hikers, walking away from the camera and into the wider landscape. It creates a clear invitation to join the adventure. The scene has an easy pull that keeps you looking without forcing the point. Wish I were there right now!

Meet the expert judge

I love the rich, heavy tonality in this image. The dark tones add a strong sense of mystery and intrigue. The silhouetted tree and figure work beautifully, and the light filtering through the trees creates a depth that pulls the viewer in.

Love the richness of the colours in this scene. The red and green hues of the backpacker complement the landscape beautifully. The whole image has a timeless, atmospheric vibe and invites you to step into the adventure. Strong, evocative work!

Brief

See more contest details

A twenty-something rite of passage for many, a lifelong pursuit for others. Packing a rucksack and hitting the road, staying in hostels, maybe a tent, maybe out under the stars on a distant beach, and seeing the world very much on your own terms. Images entered into the contest might be of backpackers, and the backpacker life, or of some of the sights that are popular with backpackers.

The happiness pouring out of this frame is hard to resist. Seeing hitchhikers feels oddly nostalgic. I miss the whole idea of hitchhiking, so it is good to know it still happens somewhere, even if most of us would panic at the thought now.

There is a wonderfully romantic tone to this classic scene. The framing is spot on, with the dark foliage creating a perfect frame within a frame for the protagonist climbing the stile. The infrared treatment adds an ethereal touch that elevates the whole image. Nicely done